If you’ve recently learned about Alberta’s Client Directed Home Care Invoicing (CDHCI) program and think it might be the right fit for your loved one, you might also be wondering: “How do we apply?”
It’s a common question—and a very good one. While CDHCI can be incredibly empowering, the application process can feel unclear or intimidating at first, especially if this is your first experience dealing with Alberta Health Services (AHS) or exploring senior care options.
This guide is designed to walk you through the process in a simple, human way. Whether you’re a family caregiver, adult child, or senior looking for more control over your home care, we’ll break it all down—step by step.
What Is CDHCI? (A Quick Recap)
Client Directed Home Care Invoicing (CDHCI) is a care model offered by Alberta Health Services that allows families to choose their own caregivers or home care agency instead of using care aides assigned directly by AHS. You receive approved services, submit invoices, and AHS reimburses the cost.
In Calgary, many families use CDHCI to work with trusted agencies like Compassion Senior Care, where consistent, compassionate caregivers become a familiar presence in the home.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for CDHCI in Calgary
Step 1: Determine If Your Loved One May Qualify
Before diving in, it helps to have a general idea of eligibility. CDHCI is designed for seniors (or other adults) who:
- Live in Alberta and have valid Alberta Health Care coverage
- Require home care services (e.g., personal care, mobility support, medication reminders, etc.)
- Are living in their own home or with family (not in long-term care)
- Have someone (either themselves or a caregiver/family member) who can manage the care plan and invoices
If this sounds like your situation, you’re on the right track.
Step 2: Call Alberta Health Services (AHS) at 811
This is your first official step. Call Health Link at 811 and request an in-home care assessment.
You’ll be connected with a Case Manager from Alberta Health Services who will schedule a time to visit your loved one at home. This assessment is important—it helps determine your loved one’s care needs and their eligibility for publicly funded services, including CDHCI.
Step 3: Ask About CDHCI Specifically
This is key: CDHCI is not always mentioned by default, so it’s important to be proactive and say you’re interested in exploring the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing program.
The case manager may ask why you’re interested. You can explain that you’d like:
- More consistent caregivers
- A specific home care agency (like Compassion Senior Care)
- Flexibility in scheduling
- More control over how care is delivered
The case manager will evaluate whether CDHCI is an appropriate fit based on your situation.
Step 4: Receive the Assessment and Get Approved
The case manager will conduct an in-person assessment of your loved one’s daily needs. They may ask questions about:
- Personal care routines (e.g., bathing, dressing, hygiene)
- Physical mobility and safety risks
- Medication management
- Memory or cognitive challenges
- Daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and errands
After the assessment, AHS will determine what type of home care your loved one qualifies for—and whether CDHCI is a suitable option.
If approved, they will provide details on the authorized number of hours or service level that will be funded under the program.
Step 5: Choose Your CDHCI-Approved Provider
Once approved, you’ll have the opportunity to choose your own caregiver(s) or agency. This is where CDHCI really shines.
You’re free to select an agency like Compassion Senior Care, where we:
- Create personalized care plans tailored to your family’s needs
- Assign consistent, trained, and compassionate caregivers
- Handle invoicing and help you stay compliant with AHS requirements
- Offer flexibility and continuity that’s hard to find in rotating care systems
Families in Calgary often find this part of the process reassuring—it marks the beginning of truly personalized, trusted care.
Step 6: Begin Care and Submit Invoices
Your selected care provider will start delivering services based on the care plan and approved hours.
Each month (or billing cycle), you’ll receive invoices that must be submitted to AHS for reimbursement. These invoices include:
- The services provided
- Number of hours of care
- Dates and times
- The total amount billed
If you’re working with a professional agency like Compassion Senior Care, we help organize and simplify this process so you don’t need to worry about technicalities or paperwork errors.
Step 7: Adjust as Needed Over Time
Your loved one’s care needs may evolve, and so can your care plan. CDHCI is flexible. If your family requires:
- Additional hours
- Different types of support
- Temporary respite
- Specialized dementia care
You can always request a reassessment from AHS. We’re also here to help guide those conversations and advocate for the care your family needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Applying for CDHCI in Calgary
How long does it take to get approved?
The timeline varies depending on AHS scheduling, but most assessments happen within 1–2 weeks of calling. Approval follows shortly after.
Is CDHCI available outside Calgary?
Yes. CDHCI is available across Alberta, but availability of care providers may differ based on your location.
Can we switch from regular home care to CDHCI later?
Absolutely. Many families start with standard AHS-assigned care, then transition to CDHCI for more consistency and control.
Do we have to do all the paperwork ourselves?
Not necessarily. Partnering with a trusted agency like Compassion Senior Care ensures that invoicing and AHS compliance are handled professionally, giving you peace of mind.
Why Families in Calgary Are Choosing CDHCI
Here’s what makes CDHCI such a good fit for so many Alberta families:
- Flexibility: You set the schedule, choose the provider, and build a plan around real life.
- Consistency: Your loved one sees the same caregivers they trust.
- Transparency: You know exactly what care is being provided and how funding is used.
- Empowerment: Families feel more in control—and seniors feel more comfortable and secure at home.
Compassion Senior Care Makes CDHCI Easy
At Compassion Senior Care, we help Calgary families take full advantage of the CDHCI program without added stress. From coordinating with AHS to organizing care schedules and handling invoices, we’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
If you’re not sure where to begin, don’t worry—our team can guide you through the entire process, starting with the AHS assessment all the way to day-to-day care delivery.
Final Thoughts
Applying for CDHCI in Calgary doesn’t have to be confusing. Once you understand the steps and get the right support, the process becomes a doorway to more compassionate, customized care for the person you love.
If you’re considering CDHCI, now is the perfect time to take that first step.
